Penarth runners light up London Marathon

AFTER months of training through rain and shine Penarth and Dinas Runners finally tackled the London Marathon on the weekend, April 13.

They were joined by nearly 40,000 runners that pounded the pavements for 26.2miles as they strove to achieve personal best times and raise money for charity.

The sun shone on the runners as they were cheered on by crowds of enthusiastic supporters for nearly every inch of the race.

For many it was the first time they had ever experienced the festival atmosphere of the London Marathon, often described as the best marathon in the world, while for others it was another event that they could enjoy every second of.

It wasn’t just the supporters that were following the runners, but nearly every member of Penarth and Dinas Runners were tracking their club mates online and urging them through every 5k of the race before they reached the finish.

Several supporters even ventured to London themselves so their friends would see a familiar face in the crowds.

In his first marathon, and after aiming for a sub 3 hour time, Richard Jackson-Hookins was the first Penarth runner to cross the finish line in 3.19.16. It was an incredible achievement as he battled stomach problems for more than half of the race.

Chris Nellins, who qualified with a Good For Age race time, was next up in 3.21.27. Chris even came to the running club session the following day!